I've just returned from the home of the ever lovely and gracious Laura (aka Girl Con Queso) -- what a great evening. In addition to meeting the amazing women behind DesignMom and Upside Up (who, along with Laura, are the women behind sk*rt), Laura had also invited Katherine Center, author of the book 'The Bright Side of Disaster.'

I'd heard Katherine speak before, but was really excited about getting the opportunity to hear her again. Katherine's is one of those Cinderella stories: she was a prolific but struggling writer who suddenly got discovered, and now has book deals and movie prospects coming out the wazoo. She's very smart and very funny, and after hearing her speak I always find myself overcome with satisfaction that what I'd always suspected is true: nice girls do finish first.

Anyway, it was a lovely evening -- thanks, Laura, for inviting me. And if any of you are looking for the perfect gift for someone on your list who is a big fan of romantic-comedy-type literature, you couldn't possibly go wrong picking up a copy Katherine's book.